Can an outlet issue a receipt in Lm on January 1?

No, it is illegal for an outlet to issue a receipt in Lm from January 1, even if the total amount payable does have the euro equivalent in dual display.

Can I still use Lm denominated stamps in 2008?

Lm denominated stamps can be used until the end of January and can be exchanged until the end of March.

Can I use my existing bank cards for payment for goods and services?

With effect from January 1, your existing bank cards automatically become euro bank cards. This means, when you use your bank card for payment purposes from January, the transaction in euros will be deducted from your newly converted euro bank account (or credit card account).

As a restaurant, do I give change in euros after midnight, on New Year's Eve?

As cafés, hotels and restaurants will be at peak business during the late hours of December 31, they have been given the option to carry on trading in Lm until the early hours of January 1. You may provide a receipt and change in Lm during this period. Nevertheless, if you receive euros after midnight on New Year's Eve you are obliged to accept them.

On the other hand, card payments after midnight on New Year's Eve will be in euros.

Will the introduction of the euro affect the date of receipt of social security benefits?

Any social security benefits, whether pensions or relief payments, due on December 29 will be sent on December 27. Contrary to usual practice, you will be able to cash your cheque on the same day, that is Thursday December 27.

In the same way, if you receive your pension by direct bank credit, the contribution will be added to your account also on the same day.

Customers cashing cheques this month will receive their payment in Lm. It is, however, strongly recommended, if possible, to wait until January 3 for encashment, so that payment is received directly in euros, eliminating the need to exchange cash a few days later.

Melvyn Mangion, manager and public and media relations of the National Euro Changeover Committee